Oxaliplatin Hypersensitivity Reaction

Management Flowchart
Step 1
Patient Receives Oxaliplatin Infusion

Monitor closely, especially in first 15–30 minutes.

Step 2
Reaction Observed?

If NO → Continue infusion with monitoring.

If YES → Proceed below.

Step 3
STOP Infusion Immediately
Maintain IV access. Assess airway, breathing, circulation (ABCs).
Step 4
Assess Severity:
  • Mild (Grade 1–2): flushing, rash, pruritus, mild dyspnea
  • Severe (Grade 3–4): bronchospasm, hypotension, anaphylaxis
Step 5
Immediate Management
  • Oxygen & vital signs monitoring
  • H1 antihistamine (diphenhydramine 25–50 mg IV)
  • H2 antagonist (famotidine 20 mg IV)
  • Corticosteroid (dexamethasone 8–20 mg IV)
  • For bronchospasm: inhaled β2-agonist (albuterol)
  • For anaphylaxis: epinephrine IM (0.3–0.5 mg, 1:1000)
  • IV fluids for hypotension
Step 6
Post-Reaction Decision:
  • Mild/Moderate: Consider rechallenge with slower rate + premedication.
  • Severe/Anaphylaxis: Permanently discontinue oxaliplatin; switch regimen.